The Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, has paid a heartfelt tribute to the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, reflecting on his enduring contributions to Nigeria’s development and governance.
In an official statement issued on Monday, Fagbemi expressed his deep sorrow over the passing of the former Nigerian leader. He noted that Buhari’s death not only signifies the loss of a former Head of State but also marks the close of a significant chapter in Nigeria’s political and moral history.
“I join His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and all people of goodwill within and outside Nigeria in mourning this profound national loss,” Fagbemi stated. “The passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, marks the end of an era in our nation’s political and moral trajectory.”
According to the AGF, Buhari would be remembered with deep reverence for his unwavering commitment to God, his nation, and his unblemished dedication to principled service.
“He was a man of austere values, gentle strength, and unyielding integrity — his life defined by selfless devotion to Nigeria’s progress and transformation,” Fagbemi added.
Reflecting on Buhari’s legacy, Fagbemi highlighted the late president’s significant impact on the nation’s legal and governance frameworks. “As President, the late Muhammadu Buhari made notable advances in strengthening the administration of justice and promoting vital law reforms,” he remarked.
He noted that Buhari’s administration was marked by the enactment of landmark legislations, courageous policy interventions, and extensive institutional reforms.
Among these, Fagbemi listed the modernisation of correctional services, comprehensive reforms in policing, the establishment of robust anti-money laundering and asset recovery frameworks, the promotion of federalism through devolution of powers, electoral reforms, and the deepening of good governance across all levels of government.
Fagbemi further recalled that it was during Buhari’s presidency that Nigeria launched a decisive legal challenge against the controversial $11 billion P&ID arbitral award — a case that posed a significant threat to the country’s financial stability.
He credited Buhari’s foresight in initiating the legal defense strategy, which was later sustained and intensified by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, ultimately saving Nigeria from what could have been an economic catastrophe.
The AGF also recounted Buhari’s sense of duty even after leaving office, describing it as unwavering and admirable. “Even in retirement, his commitment to Nigeria remained resolute. I vividly remember visiting him in both London and his hometown, Daura, to seek his support in confronting yet another predatory legal claim, this time over the Mambila Hydroelectric Power Project,” Fagbemi shared.
He continued: “Despite his advanced age and the peace of private life, former President Buhari did not hesitate to serve his nation once more. In January 2025, he travelled to Paris to appear before the tribunal as a witness, demonstrating his enduring patriotism and steadfast conviction in defending Nigeria’s interests.”
Concluding his tribute, the AGF extended condolences to President Tinubu, the former First Lady, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, and the entire family and close associates of the late leader.
“Nigeria has lost a titan of principle and purpose,” Fagbemi declared. “I offer my heartfelt condolences to His Excellency President Tinubu, Mrs. Aisha Buhari, the bereaved family, friends, and all who were touched by the life and leadership of Muhammadu Buhari. May his soul find eternal rest.”